Penguins, Capitals retirements looming based on NHL schedule-making decision

The NHL's schedule makers probably don't know anything for sure.

But they went for the potentially high-impact clash to end the regular season when the Washington Capitals take on the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Washington heads to Pittsburgh for the final game of the 2025-26 season.

Why does that matter?

Because of the aging legends on both sides.

Evgeni Malkin is expected to be playing his final season with the Penguins.

Ovechkin, who was chosen in the lone spot ahead of Malkin in the 2004 NHL Draft, will be the same age (40) and has to be getting a bit closer to the end of the line.

MORE: Alex Ovechkin gives a big update on his retirement plans

Crosby will be "only" 38 at the time of the game, and his retirement hasn't really been brought up yet.

Regardless, though, the game will somehow be probably the last one of its kind.

Malkin and Crosby have had great battles with Ovechkin through the years.

Barring a playoff meeting in the spring of 2026, it'll be the final game of the regular season that signs off on these legends wearing these sweaters on the ice together.

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